7 Things to Do When Haters Tell You "You Can't"

Haters are inevitable, but it's how you handle them that makes the difference.

By Wesley Baines

When the haters start hating, do you know how to react?

Now, we’re not talking about the Merriam-Webster definition of “hate.” This is intentionally unconstructive, mean behavior that’s intended to cause someone pain or anger, and it’s made up of two parts jealousy, one part judgmental attitude, and one part pettiness.

It doesn’t matter what you do in life, what choices you make, or how kind or blameless you are—you’re going to gather a few haters along the way to success. These people are like those sharp, little burrs that hide in the tall grass, clinging to your socks as you walk and sticking you at the least opportune moments. For whatever reason, some people will always find ways to project their negativity and insecurities onto those who don’t deserve these things.

But the reality is this: haters can only hurt you as much as you let them. Their words are carefully designed to get under your skin and make you lash out, but you’re not going to do that. Instead, you’re going to read these 7 things to do when the haters tell you “you can’t,” and you’re going to learn how to handle the hate like a boss.